P2073 Code: Manifold Absolute Pressure/Mass Air Flow – Throttle Position Correlation at Idle

The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor is used by the powertrain control module (PCM) to determine engine load in a vehicle. On some vehicles, the PCM also uses a mass air flow (MAF) sensor to measure the amount of the air entering the engine and determine how much fuel is needed. As air flow and intake manifold pressure change, so does the throttle position. If the MAP/MAF reading doesn’t match the calculated throttle position, the vehicle’s computer will log a P2073 code on a scan tool.

What Does the P2073 Code Mean?

Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2073 stands for “Manifold Absolute Pressure/Mass Air Flow – Throttle Position Correlation at Idle.” This generic powertrain code can apply to modern vehicles with OBD-II.

An internal combustion engine needs a calculated mixture of air and fuel to move the pistons up and down through its various cycles. As the piston moves down on an intake stroke, air flows into the engine to fill the low-pressure area in the cylinder. This low pressure in the engine is called vacuum.

If the engine decelerates or idles, the manifold pressure drops below atmospheric temperature, which creates a vacuum. The PCM must compensate for changes in oxygen and barometric pressure by adjusting the flow of fuel entering the engine. A fuel-injected system uses a MAP sensor to provide the PCM with information on manifold pressure. As the air pressure in the engine rises, the MAP sensor generates a higher voltage or signal frequency signal to the PCM.

The MAF sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and then converts the air flow into a frequency output that the PCM can read. This sensor accounts for relative humidity, altitude, and temperature of the air in the engine. The PCM will record a P2073 code on a scan tool if the MAP/MAF reading doesn’t match the calculated throttle position.

Note: The definition of code P2073 might be different depending on the vehicle manufacturer. Consult the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.

What are the Common Causes of the P2073 Code?

• Faulty MAF sensor
• Failed MAP sensor
• Wiring issue
• Air intake leak
• An issue with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system
• Damaged air cooler assembly

What are the Common Symptoms of the P2073 Code?

• Illuminated check engine light
• Diminished engine performance
• Poor fuel economy

How to Diagnose the P2073 Code

A P2073 code might be accompanied by other DTCs that are related to the MAP or MAF sensor, so you might observe some symptoms not listed in this article. Diagnostic steps can vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model. What might work to resolve a P2073 code for a Ford might not work for a Chevy. You should review your vehicle’s repair manual before attempting to diagnose this DTC. An incorrect diagnosis can lead to costly repairs down the line.

However, if you aren’t confident in diagnosing your vehicle, you should leave this part to a mechanic. They can save you from the hassle of doing the repairs yourself.

How to Fix the P2073 Code

There’s no one way to address a P2073 code. You might have a faulty MAF sensor, a wiring issue, or a combination of problems. If you want to figure out the right fix for your particular case, you’ll have to identify the root causes of your DTC. Luckily, there are plenty of OBD-II resources online to help you get started on your DIY journey. We recommend looking for technical service bulletins to save time on research. You can get a Chilton repair manual for reference but an ALLDATA single-vehicle subscription is better because it contains comprehensive factory repair information for your vehicle.